By Natukunda Hanna Claire
The city of Fort Portal came alive today as it commemorated International Labour Day at Mukabura Boma Grounds, under the theme “Improving Access to Labor Justice: A Prerequisite for Increased Productivity.”
The event was graced by distinguished guests, including the President, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Vice President Jessica Alupo, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Tayeba Thomas, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt. General Okiiding, and Acting Inspector General of Police Major General Tumusiime Kasigazi, along with various honorable ministers and dignitaries. They shared insightful perspectives on the importance of labor justice in driving productivity and economic growth.
The event featured also insightful discussions led by representatives from trade unions, employers’ associations, and civil society organizations, underscoring the critical link between labor justice, productivity, and social stability.
Among the notable figures present was Hon. Anyakun Esther Davinia, Minister of State for Gender, Labor, and Social Development (Labor, Employment, and Industrial Relations).
Hon. Anyakun noted the government’s commitment to ensuring fair and equitable access to labor justice for all workers. In her address, Hon. Anyakun revealed the need for robust systems to protect workers’ rights and promote a harmonious labor environment, later inviting the president to address the public.
During his address, President Museveni emphasized that a lack of vision is a primary barrier to employment for many individuals. He stressed that securing jobs relies on cultivating a clear vision for one’s future and leveraging growth opportunities through intensive agriculture, as outlined in the NRM guidelines on monetization.
The President discouraged seeking employment abroad under the misconception of job scarcity, instead emphasizing that individuals with vision can create job opportunities through strategic wealth creation initiatives. He highlighted the importance of investing in the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) to bolster local manufacturing and promote economic self-sufficiency.
President Museveni also raised concerns about the disproportionate control of markets by the wealthy, displacing the less fortunate for whom the markets were intended. He called for permanent labor arrangements to replace casual practices, advocating for greater stability and security for workers.
In his continuous efforts to address economic challenges and promote sustainable development, the President’s message resonated with a call for proactive vision-building, self-reliance, and inclusive economic policies to empower individuals and foster a more equitable and prosperous society.
President Museveni acknowledged Richard Nyakana, a 40-year-old farmer from Rwengaju village in Kabarole district, for his successful farming venture on a one-acre plot at Kana Farm, situated 4km from Fort Portal town. , Nyakana was hailed for demonstrating exceptional dedication and skill in utilizing his modest land size to generate an impressive income.
The President praised Nyakana as a shining example of a farmer who has effectively implemented the four-acre model to engage in commercial agriculture, showcasing the transformative power of small-scale farming in combating poverty and fostering economic empowerment.
President Museveni said Nyakana’s story serves as an inspiration and a testament to the potential for innovation and success in agriculture, proving that with determination, strategic planning, and hard work, even a modest plot of land can be transformed into a thriving enterprise with significant economic impact.
Maj. Gen. George Igumba, Commandant of the Senior Command and Staff College, Kimaka, honored 60 outstanding citizens with medals for their significant contributions to the country’s development.
The International Labour Day celebration in Fort Portal City served as a platform for dialogue, reflection, and advocacy on the importance of labor justice in fostering economic growth and social well-being. The event underscored the need for continued collaboration and innovation to promote a fair and inclusive labor market for all.
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